Tampa Bay Rays Sign Fernando Rodney

Jason Wise/MLB Photos via Getty Images(ST. PETERSBURG, Fla.) -- The Tampa Bay Rays have signed free-agent reliever Fernando Rodney to a one-year contract worth $2 million. The deal also includes an option for 2013 worth $2.5 million or a buyout of $250,000.

Playing with the Los Angeles Angels last season, the 34-year-old Rodney went 3-5 with a 4.50 ERA in 39 relief appearances. He spent 35 games on the disabled list with a strained upper back, and pitched in just two of the Halos' final 29 games of the season.

“Fernando’s pure stuff is top-notch and can beat hitters both in and out of the strike zone,” said Rays executive vice president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman. “We feel he will be able to maximize his ability with us to further strengthen our bullpen.”

In his nine-year major league career, Rodney is 22-39 with a 4.29 ERA and 87 saves. He saved 37 games for Detroit in 2009.